The Dublin-based project Von Venn, helmed by songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Gary Cox, has delivered a striking message with their latest single, ‘Be Free’. This track marks the third taste of the upcoming album, ‘Forgetting the Fall’, following the groundwork laid by 'You Can Talk To Me' and 'Only In The Night'. Where those singles set the scene, this release feels like a decisive, full-throated call to action, cementing Von Venn’s reputation for crafting fresh-sounding indie/alternative rock with a strong melodic and lyrical core.
Cox’s influences are notoriously far-reaching, pulling from the songwriting catalogue of greats like John Lennon, David Bowie, and John Martyn, through the studied complexity of Steely Dan, right up to alternative heroes such as Radiohead, Wilco, and Joan as Policewoman. That melting pot of sensibilities—executed perfectly alongside Terry Doyle (Keyboards, Synths, Vocals), Ciara Henry (Vocals), and Mark Wogan (Drums)—results in a song that manages to reference classic rock structure while sounding utterly modern. There is a palpable throwback rock vibe here that is weighty but never dragging; it is a song designed to lift you up, demanding to be played at maximum volume.
Lyrically, ‘Be Free’ is a powerful antidote to an increasingly complex world. It’s a direct response to the manipulation of information we are all currently facing. Cox explained the genesis of the track, sharing, "I think that’s the events of the last couple of years have led to a general loss of innocence with respect to world events and the bending of value systems and media information to suit narratives. We live in a world where might equals right and information is easily manipulated." He thought deeply of personal change and the wider geopolitical landscape, "I reflected upon my own experience from the naivety of youth (full of confidence that people would always do the right thing and people were true to their word). The experience of life both personally and with respect to world events taught me differently. The challenge is to be realistic about the world around us. Be vigilant, be aware that information as presented may not be reality and seek the truth. Be independent and free in your thoughts and deeds and don't allow yourself to be manipulated."
This tension between disillusionment and defiance is what makes the track so compelling. The lyrics hit hard, particularly lines like, “Somebody’s watching you, got to keep watching you, checking what you’ve got to say, got to be sure that everybody’s thinking is right.” But that frustration is immediately released in the rallying cry of the chorus, “We should be free, say what we want, put it out to hear, tell anyone.” Gary Cox’s vocal performance carries the message with a defiant clarity that ensures the sentiment resonates long after the final note fades. The spirit of independence is clear, with Cox adding, "I have great hope that the single Be Free will appeal to the longstanding American tradition of Freedom of Expression and Independence. These values are worth defending and preserving."
'Be Free' is a rousing, necessary reminder to critically analyse the information we are given, dance to our own tune, and defend the hard-won freedom of expression. If this is the peak of ‘Forgetting the Fall’, we’re in for a treat.
You can stream the new single above, and for more on the road to ‘Forgetting the Fall’, follow Von Venn today on Facebook and Instagram.
